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Souvlaki

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Hi everyone, I live in Canada. Trying to renew my very outdated Greek passport here in Vancouver and no matter what paperwork I send the Greek consulate, they ignore it all and pretend they know nothing and ask the same questions again and again. This has been going on now for over 2 months. I thought I would post this here as part of Greeks legendary bureaucracy for a few laughs, but seriously, any thoughts on how to proceed?
 
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Vangelis

Active member
You need μέσον. Someone on the "inside" that can help fast track things. This is the only way I was able to get my passport from the Greek embassy in Melbourne many years ago.

But I have since realised that I don't need a Greek passport. I use by Australian passport to get to Greece and from there I can use my Greek citizenship card to get anywhere in Europe.

So ask yourself, do you really need a passport if you have your Greek identity card?
 
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Souvlaki

New member
Since I've never lived in Greece, I never had a Greek ID card so it's going to be a problem I guess. Unfortunately I don't know anyone on the inside to help me out with the embassy over here. My Father always told me I've experienced nothing in life until I've had a taste of Greek bureaucracy lol.
 
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nadellii

Active member
Hi everyone, I live in Canada. Trying to renew my very outdated Greek passport here in Vancouver and no matter what paperwork I send the Greek consulate, they ignore it all and pretend they know nothing and ask the same questions again and again. This has been going on now for over 2 months. I thought I would post this here as part of Greeks legendary bureaucracy for a few laughs, but seriously, any thoughts on how to proceed?
I’ve heard that there are really long lines to get Canadian passports these days as well. It seems that the whole system is broken. Perhaps you can apply for an emergency/expedited passport?
 

Souvlaki

New member
I’ve heard that there are really long lines to get Canadian passports these days as well. It seems that the whole system is broken. Perhaps you can apply for an emergency/expedited passport?
I've been in contact with them 3 times today by email but not moving forward. It's pretty clear they will not honor that I am a Greek citizen no matter what I do, say, documents I provide. I sent them my Greek Passport today again as they said they lost the email from 2 months ago and they said my passport proves nothing so I think it's time to give up. There must be a mandate within the Greek government to deny citizens living outside Greece a passport renewal I guess.
 
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nadellii

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I've been in contact with them 3 times today by email but not moving forward. It's pretty clear they will not honor that I am a Greek citizen no matter what I do, say, documents I provide. I sent them my Greek Passport today again as they said they lost the email from 2 months ago and they said my passport proves nothing so I think it's time to give up. There must be a mandate within the Greek government to deny citizens living outside Greece a passport renewal I guess.
Very strange. Do you plan on visiting Greece soon? Perhaps if you’re going there on vacation you might be able to get it sorted out. If you’re willing to pay to get it done faster, Greeks are much more willing to accept bribes.
 

Souvlaki

New member
Very strange. Do you plan on visiting Greece soon? Perhaps if you’re going there on vacation you might be able to get it sorted out. If you’re willing to pay to get it done faster, Greeks are much more willing to accept bribes.
Yes, it's very strange and not what I expected from an official government outlet. Not really interested at the moment to travel to Greece after all this headache, but would still like my passport. Every time I think they're sincere, they turn around and ignore or void everything. I live 6 hours away, but I think the next step is to visit them directly with all my papers and talk to them.
 
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kosta_karapinotis

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Yes, it's very strange and not what I expected from an official government outlet. Not really interested at the moment to travel to Greece after all this headache, but would still like my passport. Every time I think they're sincere, they turn around and ignore or void everything. I live 6 hours away, but I think the next step is to visit them directly with all my papers and talk to them.
I have experienced something similar when trying to get my Greek drivers license, you are not alone in this for sure. Dealing with Greek bureaucracy is an absolute headache. Sorry to hear that this is discouraging you from visiting.
 

Souvlaki

New member
I have experienced something similar when trying to get my Greek drivers license, you are not alone in this for sure. Dealing with Greek bureaucracy is an absolute headache. Sorry to hear that this is discouraging you from visiting.
I've heard it can be quite common but when it actually happens it feels like a bit of a nightmare.
 
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acamp7

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I've heard it can be quite common but when it actually happens it feels like a bit of a nightmare.
Sorry to see that you are going through this. You are right my friend.
 

Souvlaki

New member
Sorry to see that you are going through this. You are right my friend.
Thanks! They obviously do not want to help and my family and I have decided why even bother if this is how the Government treats its own citizens.
 
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Interesting Greek-Inspired Gift Ideas

It's the season for gift giving, and I have people in my life who love Greek stuff. Not all of them are Greek! So, I thought I would put together a list of ideas which, frankly, can be used year round for all kinds of situations! Hostess gifts, birthdays, Mother's Day, Father's Day, etc... The ideas:

Ceramic Vases - Greek pottery is renowned for its intricate designs and beautiful colors. You can recreate this art by making your own ceramic vases. You can use different patterns to represent the specific period and region of Greece. Decorate your vase with beautiful Greek letters, mythological creatures, or patterns inspired by ancient pottery. Ceramics are a timeless gift that can be used for decoration or to hold flowers.

Personalized Maps - Greece is full of picturesque cities, islands, and scenic spots. Creating a personalized map of Greece could be an excellent unique gift for someone who loves traveling. You can use a 3D printing and scanning company to create a map of Greece in high-resolution, and then add personalized features such as landmarks that your giftee visited, special photos, and text. Personalized maps provide a timeless way of capturing memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Olive Oil and Honey Set - Greek olives and honey are known for their rich taste and aroma. You can put together a gift set of high-quality Greek olive oil and honey that your loved ones can use in their cooking. To personalize the gift, consider adding a recipe book with Greek-inspired recipes that include olive oil and honey as ingredients. This gift set is perfect for any food enthusiast looking to add unique flavors to their meals.

Greek-Inspired Jewelry - Greeks have a rich history of jewelry making. Handmade jewelry can be a perfect gift for people who love dressing up. You can make jewelry pieces, such as earrings, necklaces, or bracelets that incorporate Greek designs. Greek-inspired jewelry typically features images of gods and goddesses, ancient artifacts, or symbols of good luck. The fact that the jewelry is handmade adds personal value to each piece.

Greek Coffee Gift Set - Greeks are known for their coffee culture. Greek coffee is a treat that coffee lovers can enjoy. Put together a gift set that includes authentic Greek coffee beans, copper coffee pot (briki), and coffee cups. Don’t forget to include instructions on how to make Greek coffee! This gift set transmits the experience of a Greek coffee and is perfect for someone who loves coffee and would appreciate a unique coffee preparation.

Words to Greek Silent Night carol?

I used to sing "Silent Night" in Greek - my mother taught me.

It's a beautiful song in all languages, but I love the Greek.

I thought I'd share a video of the song! I sing it every year with my family - it's become a tradition.

Celebrating People's Name Days?

I have learned that Greeks, especially those in Greece, celebrate their name day. I want to be better at celebrating people's name days, even though I am not in Greece. I am looking for suggestions on how to help people celebrate. Some of my ideas:

  • Send a card
  • Give a gift, such as an icon of the saint
  • Take them out for dinner or have them over
  • Call them to wish them a happy name day
Does anyone know of a good name day calendar I can use to find out about when people's name days are?

Greek Wedding Traditions

I am going to be attending a wedding in Greece. What are some of the traditions I can expect? I saw online:

- Writing names of the bridal party on the bride's shoes (I am not in the bridal party)
- Decorating the bed for the bride and groom
- Or course, having the service in an orthodox church

I am sure I missed some!

Tips for decorating "to kravati"

I am participating in this tradition soon and am so excited - it will be my first time.

I have no idea what I am doing - what types of things should I do or bring?

Some ideas:

- Flowers
- Money
- Fun items on a theme (I don't know what this means, but someone told me)
- Good luck items

I am not part of the family, just participating.
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

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